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Egyptian conservationist Mindy Baha El Din, RIP

This film was taken in December. I think most of the migatory birds may have passed through by now, but there was still a lot of birdlife around. I am going in October next time to see if there is a difference.

Music, second meeting by Omar Kairat. I have no rights to this music, and hope Mr Kairat will appreciate why I have chosen to use it, it is the perfect combination of Egyptian music & birdlife.

It was with great sadness that BirdLife learned of the recent death of Mindy Baha El Din, a vocal campaigner and pioneer of conservation in Egypt.

Mindy’s long relationship with BirdLife began in 1988 when she was tasked with the running of an education project at Cairo Zoo in Egypt and the publication of the country’s first bird book in Arabic. This post marked the beginning of a lifelong love of and commitment to the country.

Her support and close involvement in the establishment of Nature Conservation Egypt (which went on to become the BirdLife Partner) was one of her many achievements. Mindy actively promoted the country’s tourism sector, showcasing bird-friendly business, and helping many a visiting birder with their holiday arrangements.

More generally, she was an active campaigner for Egypt’s natural and cultural heritage, and worked tirelessly for the conservation of Egypt’s Important Bird Areas. Her adoption of new technologies such as social media and her good relationship with journalists meant she was able to get coverage of the issues that mattered to her.

Her commitment to Egypt’s environment and her dynamic, engaging personality will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and condolences go to Sherif, Laila and Yasmine at this very difficult time.